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Rug shopping 101: choosing the perfect match for your home

Published on 09 Jan 2024

On your decorating mission, you’ve done it all. The walls are freshly painted, the furniture perfectly arranged, and the art reflects your unique perspective.

But, something is missing and the answer could lie at your feet. A rug is a wonderful way to tie a room together while bringing in a practical element to your flooring. Coming in a range of colours, textures, sizes, and patterns, the decision can be a tough one, especially for first-time homeowners. We’ve rounded together some practical tips to bring style and comfort underfoot.

Your property inspiration

If you’re after an idyllic lifestyle on the shores of the Crocodile River, you’re in luck. This eight-hectare farm in Lanseria is an excellent investment for secure and comfortable living. An interesting note is that the property is owned and cared for by a celebrity horticulturist, which explains the gorgeous gardens and landscapes you’ll discover if you stop by for a visit. Besides this, there are truly delightful interior decor choices. The oriental rugs, in mainly crimson and royal blue, have been included throughout the home. Besides bringing an exotic touch of the East, they add pops of colour that complement the scheme.

How do you decide on a rug?

How do you decide on a rug?

Visiting carpet shops and retailers, whether in-store or online, can be an overwhelming experience. There are just so many options to choose from and it can be frustrating to bring a piece home that just doesn’t work with your layout. Read these tips before you start your shopping:

Know the purpose: Ask yourself why you need a rug in a particular room. Is it to add warmth to a room, define a specific area, or simply enhance the aesthetic? Understanding your motivation will guide you in selecting the right size, material, and style.

Consider your space: Take into account the size of the room, the furniture arrangement, and the overall layout. A well-proportioned rug can anchor the room and tie everything together. Also, know a rug for your bedroom may not work for the dining room. Keeping foot traffic in mind will also help ensure you choose a rug that lasts and maintains its appearance.

Get the size right: Ensure your rug is the right size for the room. A common mistake is choosing a rug that's too small and appears to float in the middle of the room without touching furniture. Ideally, it should extend beyond the furniture, creating a cohesive and well-defined space. A good tip is to piece together newspaper clippings and create a rug replica. This will help you decide how the rug will look in your room and whether you need to go bigger or smaller.

Think about the shape: Different rug shapes suit different rooms. A circular rug may give a living room with hard lines a softer appearance while a square rug would complement the shape of a square dining room table.

Mind the material: Your room’s function will guide your rug choice. For high-traffic areas, especially ones that are frequented by pets and small children, durable and easy-to-clean materials like wool or synthetic fibres work well. In cosy spaces like bedrooms, you can opt for softer, plush materials. If you’re looking for eco-friendly options, jute and sisal are hard-wearing options that will provide a casual look to your scheme.

Add depth with texture: Different textures can add depth and visual interest. Explore options like shaggy rugs for a cosy feel or flatweave rugs for a more streamlined look.

Play with patterns and colours: Rugs are an excellent way to introduce variety to your space. If your room has neutral tones, a vibrant rug can be a focal point. Conversely, in a colourful room, a more subdued rug can balance the overall look.

Think about maintenance: If you don’t have the time or budget to manage rug maintenance, this will trim down your options. Rugs require cleaning, and some materials may be more stain-resistant than others. Factor in your lifestyle and choose accordingly.

Layer for dimension: If you can’t decide between a few rugs or want to add dimension, experiment with layering rugs. Place a smaller rug on top of a larger one to create visual interest. This works particularly well in open-concept spaces.

Test before you buy: Having a rug specifically designed or cut for you? Be sure to bring a sample home so you can see how it works in your decor scheme. Alternatively, you can read reviews online to see how a rug has been received by previous buyers.

Your home should inspire you

Choosing a rug is a personal decision, so trust your instincts and go for a rug that not only complements your space but also brings you joy and comfort. The right choice will turn your house into a home. And speaking of home, you can always turn to the real estate service of Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty when it comes to starting your next chapter. From buying, selling, renting, to letting property, our property professionals can assist you on your journey. Get in touch for help today.

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